Innovative Method for 3D Atomic Positioning

Scientists from the University of Bonn and University of Bristol have developed a new method that can measure the 3D position of individual atoms with one single image. This method is based on an ingenious physical principle and has applications in quantum gas microscopy.

What is quantum gas microscopy?

Quantum gas microscopy is a technique that allows physicists to observe individual atoms with high precision. It involves trapping atoms in a lattice of laser beams and cooling them down to near absolute zero. At this temperature, the atoms behave according to the laws of quantum mechanics and form a quantum gas. By using a high-resolution microscope, the researchers can image the quantum gas and measure the position and state of each atom.

Why is the z coordinate important?

However, until now, this technique could only provide the x and y coordinates of an atom, i.e., the horizontal position on a plane. The z coordinate, i.e., the distance to the microscope objective, was missing. This information is crucial for understanding the 3D structure and dynamics of the quantum gas, as well as for manipulating individual atoms with laser beams or magnetic fields.

How does the new method work?

The new method solves this problem by using an effect that has been known in theory since the 1990s but has not been used in quantum gas microscopy before. The effect is called astigmatic imaging and it involves using a lens that has different focal lengths for different directions. This lens produces images of atoms that are not round but elliptical, and the shape of the ellipse depends on the z coordinate of the atom.

By analyzing the shape of the ellipse, the researchers can determine the z coordinate of the atom with one single image. This way, they can measure the 3D position of individual atoms with high accuracy and speed.

What are the applications of the method?

The method has potential applications in quantum simulation, quantum information processing and quantum metrology, where precise control and manipulation of individual atoms are required. For example, by knowing the 3D position of each atom, the researchers can create complex patterns of atoms that simulate exotic phases of matter or perform quantum computations.

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